SNL Late 2025: Hosts & Musical Guests Revealed

NBC's iconic sketch series Saturday Night Live is closing 2025 with a star-studded lineup featuring returning hosts, debuts, and a legendary musical comeback. As Season 51 rolls into December, fans can expect three unforgettable episodes with powerhouse hosts and surprise musical guests.

December 6: Melissa McCarthy Returns as Host

Six-time host and "SNL" alumna Melissa McCarthy will kick off December festivities. The Emmy winner returns for her record-breaking sixth hosting gig on December 6, joining the exclusive "five-timers' club." Musical guest Dijon will perform, bringing fresh R&B energy to the season. McCarthy's previous appearances have become fan favorites for her comedic versatility and iconic characters.

December 13: Josh O'Connor Makes SNL Debut

Oscar-nominee Josh O'Connor will make his hosting debut on December 13, coinciding with the Netflix release of his latest film Wake Up Dead Man (the third Knives Out installment). Joining him as musical guest is British singer-songwriter Lily Allen, promoting her October-released album West End Girl. This episode promises a unique blend of Hollywood prestige and cutting-edge musical talent.

December 20: Ariana Grande & Cher's Epic Collab

The December 20 episode will be the night everyone's talking about: Ariana Grande hosts for her third time, fresh off the release of Wicked: For Good, while Cher takes the stage as musical guest. For Cher, this marks her first SNL musical performance in 38 years since her 1987 appearance. Though she's made cameo appearances since (notably in 2011), her return to the musical guest slot is historic. The episode will air weeks after Grande's blockbuster musical sequel, creating perfect synergy between two pop icons.

"Cher to appear on 'SNL' as musical guest for the first time in nearly 40 years" – CNN

Season Context

S51 has seen a diverse lineup so far, including hosts like Glen Powell, Amy Poehler, Sabrina Carpenter, and Bad Bunny. Grande's December hosting stint coincides with the show's 50th-anniversary celebration, where she previously participated in the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert. Cher's return adds another layer to this milestone season, bridging decades of television history.

Ariana Grande and Cher in promotional materials for their SNL collaboration - Image from https://duckduckgo.com/?origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=Ariana+Grande+and+Cher+SNL+2025+promotional+poster&ia=images&iax=images&iai=https%3A%2F%2Fhips.hearstapps.com%2Fhmg-prod%2Fimages%2Fepisode-1867-pictured-bowen-yang-host-ariana-grande-and-news-photo-1728665177.jpg%3Fcrop%3D1.00xw%3A0.752xh%3B0%2C0.0721xh%26resize%3D1200%3A*

Why Fans Are Excited

Cher's rare musical guest appearance after 38 years
Grande's hosting debut for Wicked: For Good promotion
McCarthy's record-breaking sixth hosting gig
O'Connor's SNL debut alongside Lily Allen's new music

Melissa McCarthy in a classic SNL sketch moment - Image from https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th/id/OIP.d5BZzlvtU6mi-nhwVvI_hQHaEc?pid=Api

All episodes air Saturdays at 11:30 PM ET on NBC. With this powerhouse lineup closing the year, SNL is poised to deliver holiday-ready laughs and performances that will dominate pop culture conversations.